How to Compact MS Access Database

Quick summary

Compacting an MS Access database reduces file size and improves performance by reclaiming unused space. You can enable Compact on Close via Access Options so the database compacts automatically every time it is closed.

Steps

1. Ensure the database you want to compact is closed, then open the File menu and select Options.
2. In the Access Options dialog, click Current Database in the left pane.
3. Scroll down to the Compact on Close setting and click on it to enable it.
4. Click OK to save the Compact on Close setting.
5. Click OK again to confirm the action and apply the changes.